Office Depot\'s 9th Consecutive year as a WBENC Top Corporation.

1. WE USA · Office Depot Page 1 of 2
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06/25/2010 | WE Reports
Kristin Micalizio Vice President of Direct Sales Describe the correlation between diversity and women's
inclusion and your company's bottom line. Office Depot believes that diversity and inclusion are both
instrumental values to our business and its success. Women make up more than half of our customer
base. Therefore, it is critical that we meet their needs by providing solutions and products to help them
grow their businesses. In looking at the growing demographics of women in business and political
leadership, how will that trending impact the way your company manages and incorporates women's
markets for growth? At Office Depot, we understand the value of female business professionals and have
consistently provided opportunities to help empower their businesses. From our involvement with
organizations like WBENC [Women's Business Enterprise National Council] to our Success Strategies for
Businesswomen Conferences to the Office Depot Web Café seminar series, we consistently demonstrate
our commitment. As women-owned businesses chart their strategies for the next three-to-five years, how
should they position themselves to optimize opportunities in your industry? The number one priority is for
women-owned businesses to know and understand Office Depot. They need to under¬stand our direction
and how their products and services can help Office Depot achieve our goals and meet our customers'
needs. Furthermore, businesses should continue to utilize conferences, meetings and matchmaker
sessions, including WBENC's Summit & Salute, Women in Business conferences and local regional
partner events, to network and build relationships with the purchasing and supplier diversity contacts.
Shari Francis Manager of Supplier Chain Diversity To what do you at-tribute the success of your
company's supplier diversity initiatives? We attribute Office Depot's success in the supplier diversity
department to our commitment and focus on the bigger picture. We understand that mentoring a
business can lead to a long, successful partnership. Giving a business the opportunity to present what
they have to offer to merchants and providing them with honest feedback will only strengthen these
companies. What unique qualities do you desire in suppliers that, ultimately, increase their chances for
doing business with your company? At Office Depot, we desire unique, value-based products; a
professional with knowledge of Office Depot's business and one that is coachable, asks questions,
doesn't make assumptions and has patience in working the process; and a business person who follows
up and is committed to staying in touch. Our advice to suppliers is that if there isn't an opportunity today,
there may be one tomorrow.
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http://weusa.biz/articles.php?aid=68046caa4c-20100628005315&CatID=5&SubCatID=12 9/5/2011

2. WE USA · Office Depot Page 2 of 2
http://weusa.biz/articles.php?aid=68046caa4c-20100628005315&CatID=5&SubCatID=12 9/5/2011